Eating for Twins -- Or More

If the stork will be bringing you more than one baby, you may be encouraged to head to the refrigerator a few extra times each day. Your doctor will likely advise you to consume more calories and gain more weight than you would if you were having just one baby. Ordinarily, women who start their pregnancy at normal weight are advised to gain 35-45 pounds with twins and 50-60 pounds with triplets.

To gain those additional pounds, you'll need to consume an extra 450-500 calories a day (rather than 300) and more if you are very active. Bulk up your diet with nutritious foods: fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, nuts, beans, and non-fat dairy foods. Talk with your doctor about whether you need extra vitamin supplements beyond your prenatal vitamin.

If your multiples pregnancy is proceeding without complications, your doctor will probably allow you to exercise moderately. If complications arise, your doctor may recommend that you stop exercising, particularly during the second half of pregnancy.

Originally published in You & Your Baby: Pregnancy.

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